You make a difference in so many lives and they make a difference in yours. At the end of the day, I can honestly say, there is no better feeling than having a client tell you, “You saved my life.”

When I came to NorthKey 26 years ago as an intake receptionist, I needed a job. What I came to realize in a very short time was that NorthKey was more than just a job. The people that I worked with genuinely cared about me – I wasn’t another person sitting at the front desk.

To work for an organization that supports and encourages growth as an employee is amazing! ALL team members are the absolute best people on the planet, and the ability to have a flexible schedule is awesome!

It is absolutely amazing to see the progress and growth of each individual that receives services from any member of our IDD Team. I do not think I would be here for 22 years if I did not wholeheartedly believe in the work that we do for our Individuals with Disabilities.

I am here today to help someone. This job has given me so much gratitude and it has taught me that it’s ok to get vulnerable and be uncomfortable because that’s the only way you can change and grow. I am here because I’m a survivor, and I want to let others know that there is a better way to live. I am here because NorthKey chose to take a chance with someone like me, and I feel blessed to be able to return the favor.

My mom has always told others that I was the one to “bring home the broken puppy.” I simply cannot help but lend support when I see someone struggling, whether it be setting up support or just listening to their inner turmoil.

I feel every day that I am helping someone who really doesn’t know where they are going. I feel I have stepped up for them and hopefully made them feel a little better about themselves or their lives.

We work with such a variety of families; it never gets boring. The families are so thankful for the services we provide. We get to witness a child take their first steps, use a sign for “more”, hug a parent for the first time, observe a child that no longer has sensory issues, and even watch a parent burst into tears because their child said, “I love you “ for the first time.

I am currently enrolled in school to obtain my bachelor’s degree in social work so that I can do more to help serve our client population. This is mostly because of the amazing things I see happen every day here at NorthKey. I want to become more engaged in helping our clients and make a difference in the mental health field. Mental health is important to me, it is something I struggle with myself and being an advocate for others who may be going through similar issues means the world to me.